Unique experience for Enfield primary schools

Students from Enfield primary schools have been enjoying the opportunity to play football at the Club’s world-class Training Centre – under the watchful eye of our Academy players.

Football teams from Merryhills, Edmonton County, Raglan, Eversley and Capel Manor have all taken part in sessions at Hotspur Way over the past six weeks as part of our own scholars’ work towards FA Level 2 Coaching qualifications.

Jeremy Kyezu, Eddie Carrington, Yago Santiago, Marqes Muir, Dermi Lusala and Matthew Craig have been delivering the sessions, teaching the Year Five students the fundamental techniques of passing, dribbling and shooting.

Midfielder Matthew said: “As we go through the Academy at Spurs, we develop a good understanding of the game, but imparting that knowledge onto schoolchildren is a different challenge. I had to therefore take time to explain the principles. Dealing with a large group, you had to make sure you could keep control of the session and ensure they are listening to what you’re saying. It was my second coaching session so I’m still learning and eager to improve – it’s been beneficial to me and helps my understanding of the game as well.”

Ben De La Fuente, teacher and football coach at Merryhills Primary, said: “Sport is at the forefront of our school, so for our students to have the opportunity to come to a world-class facility like this is really special. We’ve got lots of aspiring footballers, so for them to see a Premier League facility is aspirational – they know with hard work they could end up training in a place like this in years to come.

“This is something they’ll remember for the rest of their lives – especially if one of the players that is coaching ends up playing for Spurs’ first team one day. The Academy players are showing our students that there’s more to the journey of becoming a professional footballer than just what they do on the pitch. It’s motivational for the students because they know that if they work hard at school then they’ll have the opportunity to come to a place like this.

“The Club’s community links with Enfield are so great and we’re so privileged to have the opportunity to take part in things like this.”